đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Plymouth and Los Angeles
Head-to-Head Analysis
Plymouth vs Los Angeles
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Plymouth | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $130,793 | $79,701 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4% | 5.5% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $495,000 | $1,002,500 |
| Price per SqFt | $203 | $616 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,201 | $2,006 |
| Housing Cost Index | 110.3 | 173.0 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 104.8 | 107.9 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $2.67 | $3.98 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 280.3 | 732.5 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | — | 39.2% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 30 | 52 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Los Angeles vs. Plymouth: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
So, you’re standing at a crossroads. On one side, you’ve got the glittering, sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles—the city of dreams, traffic, and eternal sunshine. On the other, Plymouth—a smaller, quieter community, likely in a colder climate, with a surprisingly high median income. This isn’t just a choice between two zip codes; it’s a choice between two completely different galaxies of lifestyle.
Whether you’re a family looking for a backyard, a young professional chasing a career, or a retiree seeking peace, the data tells a story. But it’s the feel of the city that often seals the deal. Let’s break down this showdown with hard numbers, honest opinions, and a verdict that fits your life.
The Vibe Check: Laid-Back vs. High-Octane
Los Angeles is a beast. It’s not just a city; it’s a collection of 88 distinct towns stitched together with freeways and ambition. The vibe here is "hustle and bustle" meets "endless possibility." You’ve got Hollywood flash, Silicon Beach innovation, and a sprawling ethnic food scene that’s arguably the best in the world. It’s for the ambitious, the creative, and the resilient. If you need constant stimulation, diverse cultures, and don’t mind a certain level of chaos, LA is your playground. It’s a city that rewards risk-takers and punishes the unprepared.
Plymouth (assuming you're referring to Plymouth, Massachusetts, given the data profile of cold winters and high income) is the polar opposite. It’s a "quaint coastal town" with deep historical roots (hello, Plymouth Rock). The vibe is "community-focused" and "seasonal." Life moves at a slower, more deliberate pace. It’s for those who value charm, safety, and a strong sense of community over endless entertainment options. You trade the 24/7 energy of LA for quiet evenings, historic charm, and a distinct four-season climate.
Who is each city for?
- Los Angeles: Go-getters, artists, techies, foodies, and anyone who thrives in a high-energy, diverse environment. You need to have thick skin and a high tolerance for ambiguity.
- Plymouth: Families, history buffs, and professionals who want a strong community feel without sacrificing access to a major city (Boston is under an hour away). You prioritize safety, schools, and seasonal beauty over nightlife.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your Salary Really Go?
This is where the rubber meets the road. The "sticker shock" in LA is real, but so is the income potential. Let’s look at the numbers.
Cost of Living Comparison Table
| Category | Los Angeles | Plymouth | The Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Home Price | $1,002,500 | $495,000 | 102% more in LA |
| Rent (1BR) | $2,006 | $1,201 | 67% more in LA |
| Housing Index | 173.0 | 110.3 | 57% above nat'l avg |
| Median Income | $79,701 | $130,793 | $64k more in Plymouth |
Salary Wars & Purchasing Power
Let’s run a scenario: You earn $100,000.
- In Plymouth, with a median income of $130,793, you’re slightly below average but in a much more affordable market. Your $100k feels solid. You can likely afford a home payment, save for retirement, and enjoy local life without constant financial stress. The $495,000 median home price is daunting but within the realm of possibility for a dual-income household.
- In Los Angeles, with a median income of $79,701, earning $100k puts you comfortably above average. However, housing costs are double. That $1,002,500 median home price means a 20% down payment of $200,500. Your $100k salary will be stretched thin by the $2,006 rent (for a 1BR) and the overall cost of goods and services. Your purchasing power is significantly weaker here.
The Tax Twist: California has a high state income tax (ranging from 1% to 13.3%). Massachusetts has a flat 5% income tax. This further erodes your take-home pay in LA. If you’re looking for "bang for your buck," Plymouth wins this round decisively. In LA, you’re paying a premium for the location and opportunity; in Plymouth, you’re getting more space and safety for your dollar.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
Los Angeles: The Seller’s Market
Buying in LA is a high-stakes game. With a Housing Index of 173.0, you’re competing in one of the most expensive markets in the U.S. It’s a relentless seller’s market. Bidding wars are common, cash offers often beat financed ones, and inventory is perpetually low. The median home price of $1,002,500 is just an average; desirable neighborhoods like Santa Monica or Silver Lake are significantly higher. Renting is the default for many, but with a median rent of $2,006, it’s also a major financial commitment. You’re renting for the lifestyle, not just a roof over your head.
Plymouth: A More Balanced Market
Plymouth’s Housing Index of 110.3 is far more reasonable. While still above the national average, it’s not in the stratosphere like LA. The median home price of $495,000 is challenging but attainable for many professionals, especially with the higher local median income of $130,793. The market is competitive but not cutthroat. You have a better chance of finding a single-family home with a yard, a rarity in most of LA. Renting is a viable stepping stone, with a median of $1,201 being significantly more manageable.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life Deep Dive
Traffic & Commute
- Los Angeles: This is a major dealbreaker. LA is synonymous with traffic. The average commute can easily be 45-60 minutes each way. You’ll spend a significant portion of your life in your car. Public transit exists but is limited for most commutes. The stress and time cost are real factors.
- Plymouth: While not immune to traffic (especially commuting into Boston), it’s on a completely different scale. Commutes are generally shorter, and you can often live, work, and play within a smaller radius. The quality of life improvement from reduced commute time cannot be overstated.
Weather
- Los Angeles: 54.0°F is the average, but that’s misleading. LA has a Mediterranean climate: mild, dry summers and cool, wet winters. It’s often sunny. You trade seasonal variety for predictability. You’ll rarely need a heavy coat, but you also won’t see vibrant fall foliage or dramatic snow.
- Plymouth: 16.0°F is the average winter temperature. This is a four-season climate. You get stunning autumns, beautiful springs, warm summers, and cold, snowy winters. If you love seasonal activities (skiing, leaf-peeping, beach days), Plymouth is ideal. If you hate snow and shoveling, it’s a hard no.
Crime & Safety
- Los Angeles: Violent Crime: 732.5/100k. This is significantly higher than the national average. While many neighborhoods are safe, crime is a pervasive issue. You must be aware of your surroundings, and safety varies wildly by zip code. This is a non-negotiable factor for families.
- Plymouth: Violent Crime: 280.3/100k. This is below the national average. Plymouth is widely considered a safe, family-friendly community. The lower crime rate is a massive selling point for those prioritizing security and peace of mind.
The Final Verdict
After breaking down the data and the lifestyle, here’s the clear winner for specific groups.
🏆 Winner for Families: Plymouth
Why: It’s not even close. The combination of a violent crime rate (280.3/100k) that’s less than half of LA’s, excellent public schools, a median home price ($495,000) that’s actually within reach for many, and a strong community feel makes it a no-brainer. You get space, safety, and a quality of life that’s hard to find in LA.
🏆 Winner for Singles & Young Pros: Los Angeles
Why: If you’re in entertainment, tech, or any industry where networking and opportunity are paramount, LA is the place to be. The career upside is massive. The social scene is unparalleled, with endless events, restaurants, and cultures to explore. Yes, it’s expensive and stressful, but for the right ambitious person in their 20s or 30s, the energy is worth the cost.
🏆 Winner for Retirees: Plymouth
Why: Retirees often prioritize safety, cost of living, and community—all areas where Plymouth excels. The slower pace of life, seasonal beauty, and lower crime rate are ideal. While LA has great weather and healthcare, the high cost of living and urban stress can be draining. Plymouth offers a peaceful, stable environment to enjoy your golden years.
Pros & Cons Summary
Los Angeles
Pros:
- Unmatched career opportunities in several industries.
- Incredible cultural and ethnic diversity.
- World-class food, nightlife, and entertainment.
- Mild, sunny weather year-round.
- Proximity to beaches, mountains, and deserts.
Cons:
- Extreme cost of living and brutal housing market.
- Heavy traffic and long commutes.
- High crime rate in many areas.
- High state income tax.
- Fierce competition in every aspect of life.
Plymouth
Pros:
- Significantly more affordable housing and cost of living.
- Safer community with low violent crime.
- Strong public schools and family-friendly environment.
- Access to Boston’s job market without Boston prices.
- Beautiful four-season climate with coastal access.
Cons:
- Harsh, cold winters with snow.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment compared to a major metro.
- Smaller, less diverse population.
- Commuting to Boston can still be a factor.
- Fewer top-tier career opportunities directly in Plymouth.
The Bottom Line: Choose Plymouth for a balanced, secure, and family-centric life where your dollar goes further. Choose Los Angeles if your career and social life demand the energy and opportunities of a global city, and you’re willing to pay a premium—and endure the traffic—for it.